To part hair for highlights with foil, you typically section the hair into manageable areas first, but the crucial step for determining the look is taking specific subsections from those larger parts. The size of these subsections directly impacts the final highlighting result.
Understanding Hair Parting for Foiling
When applying highlights with foil, hair is usually divided into larger sections (like quadrants) first for organization. However, the technique involves taking smaller, consistent subsections from these main sections to place into the foils. How you slice or weave these subsections and their thickness (the 'parting' at the subsection level) is key.
The Importance of Subsection Size
According to the provided reference, the size of the subsections you take before placing the foil is directly related to the desired outcome:
- Smaller Subsections: Taking smaller subsections is recommended if you aim to create lots of Blondin blending and brightness. This technique results in a more diffused and interwoven highlight effect.
- Varying Subsection Size: The reference also notes that smaller subsections can contribute to a very natural effect or higher contrast with a deeper background. This suggests that varying or intentionally keeping subsections small can help achieve specific looks, from subtle to more defined contrast.
Practical Steps for Sectioning and Sub-Sectioning
- Initial Sectioning: Divide the hair into 4-6 main sections using clips (e.g., nape, sides, crown). This helps manage the hair.
- Working Section by Section: Release one main section to begin.
- Taking Subsections: From this main section, use a tail comb to carefully take a subsection of hair that you will place into a foil.
- The size (thickness and width) of this subsection is where the customization happens.
- You might use different techniques to select hair within the subsection, such as slicing (taking a clean, thin segment) or weaving (using the tail comb to pick up alternating strands within the subsection).
- Placement: Slide the foil under the subsection and apply the lightener or color.
- Folding: Carefully fold the foil to secure the hair and product.
- Repeat: Continue taking consistent or varied subsections throughout the head, working through your main sections.
By controlling the size and technique of taking these subsections, you control the density and effect of the highlights, achieving looks ranging from subtle shimmer to bold streaks, or blended brightness as highlighted in the reference.
